The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) have officially opened renewable energy facilities in Yap Island to strengthen the FSM region’s energy reliability and security.

ADB provided a $9m loan for the project, which was used to build a windfarm capable of resisting typhoons, to install grid-connected solar panels to five government buildings across the island and to purchase new fuel-efficient diesel generators.

“The project helps the state of Yap achieve a renewable energy future by reducing dependency on imported diesel.”

ADB Pacific Department deputy director general James Lynch said: “The project helps the state of Yap achieve a renewable energy future by reducing dependency on imported diesel through the expansion of renewable power generation.”

With the purchase of more fuel-efficient power generators, Yap officials intend to reduce diesel consumption by approximately 11.5% from current levels.

The new renewable energy sources installed in the Yap region would replace around 17% of electricity currently generated by diesel generators.